Phillies Ink Utility Man Bixler

According to Chris Cotillo, the Phillies have signed utility manBrian Bixler to a minor league deal. Bixler, 31, has hit .189/.249/.269 across 356 MLB PA, played every position but pitcher, catcher, and first base last year at Triple-A Las Vegas, and has played every position but pitcher and catcher in the Major Leagues. Bixler has hit .276/.351/.397 in 2516 Triple-A PA.

These types of signings should not raise a single eyebrow. They fill roster spots at the minor league level. Despite my generally optimistic feeling about the beginning of the season, I still feel left out when I see the Diamondbacks signed Bronson Arroyo.

Same with all the other GMs who bring in all the similar or even lesser players to fill out their AAA rosters. Bixler isn’t as good as Bruntlett, but he’s better than MiniMart and better than someone like John Vukovich, if you remember him.